About Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design

More than four decades ago, William H. Sardo, Jr. Pallet and Container Laboratory was constructed to develop state-of-the-art technologies to improve the efficiency of the global distribution by optimizing the unit load and packaging systems. Since its establishment, with industry and government support, Virginia Tech researchers have developed a reliability-based design and analysis methodology related to pallets and unit loads. We are always in the forefront of the innovation; therefore, we are one of the few laboratories who are represented in various committees to develop the new version of ASTM, ISO, ISTA, and ANSI standards. Being part of an academic institution, education of future packaging professionals is one of our main missions. To fulfill this mission, we provide training to many undergraduate and graduate students to gain valuable industrial experience through incoming industrial projects; meanwhile, we organize short courses to members of the packaging industry.

Position Summary

The Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design is looking for a person with strong managerial and supervisory skills and technical knowledge on package and pallet evaluation techniques.

The individual will be responsible for:
• Evaluating packages, pallets, and unit loads based on ISTA, ASTM, AIAG, ISO standards, and custom testing protocols
• Developing test setups and experimental designs
• Planning, organizing, setting up, and supervising standardized and customized tests
• Coordinating deliveries and shipment of materials
• Conducting data analysis and writing final reports
• Presenting research and testing information in industry and/or scientific conferences
• Ensuring that testing is completed in a timely manner
• Troubleshooting and investigating problems affecting the testing operation
• Assisting in developing and implementing policies and procedures that ensure effective completion of area functions,
• Assigning, training, and directing personnel
• Coordinating equipment maintenance
• Attaining and maintaining laboratory accreditations
• Fostering collaboration between the different laboratories of the Center
• Teaching an experiential learning class